2014 Annual Membership Meeting

First Responder

New York is now home to 40 Child Advocacy Centers

The New York State Children’s Alliance, Inc. (NYSCA) is a statewide membership organization dedicated to helping local communities effectively respond to allegations of child abuse in a manner that puts the needs of children first. NYSCA was established in May 2000 to represent a network of Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) and Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs) throughout New York State on a state and federal level. NYSCA provides training and technical assistance to members and supports the development, growth and continuation of CACs and MDTs throughout the state.

CACs provide a child friendly setting in which allegations of abuse are responded to collaboratively by a multidisciplinary team including members of law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical professionals, mental health providers, victim advocates and Center staff. Centers are based upon a national model designed to reduce the trauma experienced by child victims. From the time of the initial report, through the resolution of the case, the team will work together to conduct a thorough investigation, prosecute offenders and provide the necessary support services to the children and their non-offending family members.